Abstract

PHYTOCHEMICAL AND PHARMACOLOGICAL EVALUATION OF ZIZIPHUS RUGOSA LEAVES FOR GASTROPROTECTIVE BENEFITS

Nitin Ramchandra Shelke*, Dr. Sachin K. Chandavarkar, Dr. Mahesh J. Patil, Sonal Nalkar and Gauri Sanjay Raut

Abstract

This study investigates the phytochemical composition and gastroprotective potential of Ziziphus rugosa leaves, emphasizing its antioxidant and antiulcer activities. Ethanolic extraction yielded the highest recovery of bioactive compounds (8.0%), rich in flavonoids (93.36 mg QE/g) and phenolics (493.42 mg GAE/g). Phytochemical screening confirmed the presence of tannins, saponins, alkaloids, glycosides, and steroids. Antioxidant assays (DPPH, ABTS) demonstrated strong radical inhibition, particularly at higher concentrations. In vitro antiulcer screening showed significant acid-neutralizing capacity and potent inhibition of H⁺/K⁺-ATPase activity. The ethanolic extract displayed dose-dependent proton pump inhibition with a maximum of 62.18% at 100 µg/mL, closely comparable to omeprazole (69.56%). Acid-neutralization assays further supported the extract’s antacid-like properties. These effects are likely mediated through antioxidant mechanisms and direct modulation of proton pump Activity. The findings strongly support the traditional use of Z. rugosa in managing gastric disorders. The combined antioxidant, acid-neutralizing, and H⁺/K⁺-ATPase inhibitory effects of its phytoconstituents suggest its promising potential as a natural gastroprotective agent. Further investigations into its mechanism of action and bioactive constituents are warranted to develop safe, plant-based antiulcer therapies.

Keywords: Ziziphus rugosa, gastroprotection, H⁺/K⁺-ATPase inhibition, antiulcer activity etc.